Siemens Intelligent Link Model Provides Automation Data Transparency

Siemens’ Sirius 3RC7 intelligent link module is designed to simplify data transparency down to the field level. The plug-and-play expansion module combines information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) with minimal installation and commissioning effort. According to the company, this means that the data available at the load feeders can be used efficiently. As part of the Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) concept from Siemens, the Sirius 3RC7 intelligent link modules are seamlessly integrated into the existing automation environment.

A variety of load feeder parameters can be collected and evaluated directly, including voltage, current, phase imbalance, number of overload trips and more. The integrated diagnostic functions help detect and correct faults more quickly. Among other things, the data can be used for Senseye Predictive Maintenance, Siemens’ comprehensive solution for predictive maintenance using AI, which Siemens says can increase the planning reliability for maintenance, availability and cost effectiveness of the system.

Due to full integration in TIA, users can receive up-to-date status information in their operating software. In addition, when using special apps such as Node-Red, they have access to a dashboard to quickly identify bottlenecks, which can prevent downtime and increase the availability of the system.

The Sirius 3RC7 intelligent link modules integrate into the compact Simatic ET 200SP I/O system, as well as any other common automation system. Up to 16 load feeders can be connected per BA-Send module bus adapter in order to benefit from the simple commissioning, individual scalability and maximum flexibility offered by the Simatic ET 200SP.

In conjunction with Sirius switchgear and the compact Simatic ET 200SP I/O system for control cabinets, Sirius 3RC7 intelligent link modules can enable reliable and efficient data exchange between OT and IT. The addition of the Sirius 3RC7 intelligent link module to the existing Sirius portfolio (modular system) has created the Sirius Intelligent Load Feeder. The Sirius Intelligent Load Feeder is a pre-assembled digital feeder consisting of a Sirius 3RV2 circuit breaker, a Sirius 3RT2 contactor and the intelligent link module.

“Transparency down to field level is becoming increasingly important. However, many devices are not connected to the automation system, which means important data is missing. By digitalizing the field level, we are creating a new dimension of transparency and enabling data-driven decisions,” says Andreas Matthé, CEO of electrical products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure.